SurLaLune Fairy Tales

If you have fairy tale or folklore related things you'd like to share, please send them to me through my website email, heidi at surlalunefairytales dot com. Read more about fairy tales at SurLaLune Fairy Tales.

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Friday, April 16, 2010

Fairy Tale Poetry Week: What the Wolf Really Said to Little Red Riding-Hood by Bret Harte

Today's offering for Fairy Tale Poetry Week in honor of National Poetry Month:

What the Wolf Really Said to Little Red Riding-Hoodby Bret Harte (1836–1902)

Wondering maiden, so puzzled and fair, Why dost thou murmur and ponder and stare? “Why are my eyelids so open and wild?” Only the better to see with, my child! Only the better and clearer to view Cheeks that are rosy and eyes that are blue.

Dost thou still wonder, and ask why these arms Fill thy soft bosom with tender alarms, Swaying so wickedly? Are they misplaced Clasping or shielding some delicate waist? Hands whose coarse sinews may fill you with fear Only the better protect you my dear!

Little Red Riding-Hood, when in the street, Why do I press your small hand when we meet? Why, when you timidly offered your cheek, Why did I sigh, and why didn’t I speak? Why, well: you see—if the truth must appear— I’m not your grandmother, Riding-Hood, dear!